60. The STNA is working with a resident who has Sundowning syndrome. This resident is most likely to:
Answer: B
The resident is most likely to become agitated in the late afternoon.
Sundowning syndrome is characterized by increased confusion and agitation that occurs in the late afternoon and evening. Therefore, the resident is most likely to exhibit agitation during this time.
A) become sleepy when the sun sets
This option is incorrect because individuals with Sundowning syndrome typically do not become sleepy; instead, they often experience heightened agitation and confusion as the day progresses. Sleepiness would not align with the behavioral patterns associated with Sundowning.
B) become agitated in the late afternoon
This option is correct as it accurately describes the primary symptom of Sundowning syndrome. Residents often show increased restlessness, confusion, and agitation during the late afternoon and into the evening hours.
C) becomes hard to arouse in the late afternoon
This option is incorrect, as Sundowning syndrome does not involve difficulty in arousal. Instead, individuals may exhibit increased energy or agitation rather than lethargy or an inability to wake.
D) will be diagnosed with stage 6 Alzheimer's Disease
While Sundowning can occur in individuals with Alzheimer's Disease, it is not exclusive to stage 6 or any specific stage of the disease. Therefore, this option is misleading as Sundowning can occur in various stages of dementia, not just stage 6.
Conclusion
The correct answer, B, reflects the hallmark behavior of individuals with Sundowning syndrome, characterized by increased agitation during late afternoon hours. The other options fail to accurately represent the symptoms of Sundowning, either suggesting sleepiness or misrepresenting the relationship between Sundowning and Alzheimer's Disease stages.